While no part of the tunnel would be within city limits, its opponents contend that the tunnel would siphon commuters through the Glendale and foothill regions on the 210 and Ventura (134) freeways to Pasadena to catch the 710 Freeway south.
Najarian cited the need to keep an open mind on the issue, but called for Glendale to take the lead on opposing the project.
“If you care about this issue,” he said, “the time to get involved is now.”
In a presentation to the City Council, Nat Reed, chairman of the 710 Freeway Coalition, said the project would reduce air pollution and traffic.
“I would urge you to remember as we go through this process … traffic will be reduced on all of our freeways with the completion of this [extension],” Reed said.
Glendale joins several communities in its concern. Since Caltrans first broached the concept in 2002, the tunnel’s possibility has ignited dissent in much of the affected areas, which include Alhambra, San Marino, La Crescenta and Pasadena.
The City Council did not reach a conclusion Tuesday, but it may take an official position on the tunnel concept at a later meeting.
Councilwoman Laura Friedman sought more information, and Mayor Frank Quintero echoed some concern over the extension’s potential traffic effects.
The California Department of Transportation and Metro began a soil study in June to examine the tunnel’s feasibility. No environmental assessment has been initiated.
Caltrans will host a community meeting for residents to learn more about the soil study at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Central Library Auditorium, 222 E. Harvard St.
